Preparations for the Macmillan Cancer Support (Jersey) Indoor Rowathon are well under way with a new venue and support from a former Olympic rower.

Due to increased interest, the Macmillan Jersey fundraising team has moved the event to a larger venue to accommodate all of the teams. The Rowathon, which comprises of teams of six rowing the equivalent of Sark to Jersey (30,000m) will now be held in the Indoor Tennis centre at Les Ormes Leisure resort in St Brelades.

The RBS International sponsored event takes place on Saturday 26th May 2012 from 9.00am and will be run in three sessions throughout the day, culminating in the awards ceremony around 5.30pm

As part of the continued growth of the event, the challenge this year will be supported by Olympic rower Toby Garbett. Toby has attended two Olympic Games and is a two-time world rowing champion. He first represented Great Britain at the age of 19 and went on to compete in five world championships. During his long international rowing career, Toby faced many challenges including illness, injury and disappointment which tested him to the limit. Bouncing back from these set backs and going on to achieve considerable success in his sport helped him build a steely determination to succeed which he now brings to his role as an elite personal trainer, mentor and motivational speaker.

In addition, Toby likes to practise what he preaches and he has now gone back to elite sport and qualified for the Great Britain Triathlon team in his age group for the European championships in Eilat where he came 4th ahead of a very strong field.

Brian Frith, Chairman of Macmillan Cancer Support (Jersey), commented: “The Rowathon makes a huge difference to Macmillan Jersey which relies on donations so we are very grateful for all support. When you’re living with cancer, the difference between a good day and a bad day can often come down to really small things. At our Cancer Information and Support Centre at the Lido de France, we offer information, support and practical advice on all aspects of cancer, not only to patients, but also families, friends and colleagues.”

Andy Smith, RBS International, added: “Team spaces are still available for those who are interested in taking part in the Rowathon and meeting Toby but entries must be complete by May 4th so we urge teams to submit their entries and support Macmillan Jersey’s important work in helping cancer patients in the island. If rowing the distance is not for you then spectators are very welcome to come down and support those taking part for this great cause.”

Teams can enter on-line at www.macmillanjersey/rowathon and follow the event on facebook (Macmillan Rowathon Jersey) and twitter (Macmillan Row Jsy).